a&a vs reconstruction: which one to choose?
Singapore’s real estate landscape is constantly evolving, and homeowners often find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to upgrading their landed properties. Two popular options are Alteration and Addition (A&A) works and complete reconstruction. Each approach has its own set of advantages and considerations, making the choice a pivotal decision for homeowners. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of both A&A works and reconstruction to help you make an informed decision for your cherished landed house in Singapore.
A&A WORKS: PRESERVING THE PAST?
pros
Cost-Effectiveness:
A&A works are generally more budget-friendly than complete reconstruction, making it an attractive option for homeowners looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
Preservation of Heritage:
If your house holds sentimental or historical value, A&A works allow you to retain the original structure while incorporating modern amenities, striking a balance between tradition and modernity.
Faster Turnaround:
A&A works often have a quicker turnaround time compared to reconstruction since the existing structure serves as the foundation, saving time and hassle.
cons
Space Limitations:
A&A works might limit your ability to expand the living space significantly. If you need a larger house, reconstruction might be a more viable option.
Compromised Structural Integrity:
Depending on the age of your property, the existing structure might have limitations regarding load-bearing capacity and overall stability, which could limit the extent of modifications possible.
RECONSTRUCTION: EMBRACING A NEW BEGINING
pros
Unlimited Design Possibilities:
Reconstruction offers the freedom to design your dream home from scratch, optimizing the layout and incorporating modern features tailored to your needs and preferences.
Structural Integrity:
With reconstruction, you can ensure that the entire house is built with modern construction standards, providing optimal safety and structural integrity for the long term.
Increased Property Value:
A newly constructed home often commands a higher market value, providing a good return on investment if you plan to sell the property in the future.
cons
Higher Costs:
Reconstruction projects typically come with a higher price tag due to the extensive scope of work involved, including demolishing the existing structure and building from the ground up.
Time-Consuming:
Unlike A&A works, reconstruction projects take a considerable amount of time, from the planning and design phase to the actual construction, which could disrupt your living situation for an extended period.
CONCLUSION
Ultimately, the decision between A&A works and
reconstruction depends on your budget, the extent of modifications you desire,
and your sentimental attachment to the existing structure. It's crucial to
consult with experienced architects, engineers, and contractors who specialize
in landed house renovations. They can assess your property, understand your
requirements, and provide valuable insights to help you make an informed
decision tailored to your unique situation.
how do architects charge their fees?
Architects typically charge a percentage fee based on the complexity and estimated construction cost of a project. For new-built landed houses, this fee typically falls within the range of 6-10% of the estimated construction cost. Alternatively, architects may also adopt a fixed lump sum fee method for simpler projects. It’s important to note that different architectural firms will have their unique fee structures and this article just serves as a general guide, offering homeowners a high level estimation on the fees they are expecting if they would like to rebuilt their landed house.
before you purchase your landed property
Singapore’s landed property market is as diverse as it is appealing, with buyers often seeking homes that cater to their specific needs and preferences. However, in the pursuit of creating their dream homes, some homeowners may be tempted to undertake illegal works without proper approvals. This article sheds light on the severe consequences of illegal works, drawing references from the regulations set forth by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) in Singapore.
a&a vs reconstruction which one to choose?
Singapore’s real estate landscape is constantly evolving, and homeowners often find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to upgrading their landed properties. Two popular options are Alteration and Addition (A&A) works and complete reconstruction. Each approach has its own set of advantages and considerations, making the choice a pivotal decision for homeowners. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of both A&A works and reconstruction to help you make an informed decision for your cherished landed house in Singapore.